Helping Beginning Farmers Succeed
Connecticut farmers keep our economy running. They contribute $2 billion to the state’s economy each year, provide fresh produce and dairy, and create good jobs in the process. But I’ve heard from new and aspiring farmers across Connecticut that getting started in farming is a big challenge, especially with thousands of dollars in student loan debt.
That’s why I teamed up with Senator Tom Udall of New Mexico to introduce the Student Loan Forgiveness for Farmers and Ranchers Act. Our bill creates a loan forgiveness program for beginning farmers and ranchers with less than 10 years of experience. It also provides loan forgiveness for women, veterans, and minority farmers. It will help encourage people who are considering farming to enter the industry, and it will help farmers who are just getting started grow successful businesses.
One of the farmers I met with is Will O’Meara, the assistant farm manager at Waldingfield Farm in Washington, CT. For Will, the bill would be a game changer when it comes to his future in farming. “The skills and knowledge I gained attaining my degree are crucial for the next generation of farmers,” he said.
“However, my salary as a farm manager is modest, and my student loan payments amount to over a third of my income after taxes. Beyond adding to a general sense of financial dread, these loans have contributed to a serious delay in starting and investing in my own farm business. Congress should pass the Student Loan Forgiveness for Farmers and Ranchers Act, because we need to send the message that a career in farming is both valued and viable. There is a generation of farmers waiting to be dedicated stewards of the soil and water, growers of food for their community, and active participants in vibrant, small business-driven economies.”
Will isn’t alone. In Connecticut, one in four farmers are considered beginning farmers, meaning they have less than 10 years of experience. These young farmers are ready to work hard and contribute to our economy. It’s my hope that the Student Loan Forgiveness for Farmers and Ranchers Act will help them get there.
